Zimbabwe Govt Goes Hi-Tech at Beitbridge Border Post
Zimbabwe has begun rolling out a suite of digital systems at Beitbridge Border Post as part of its modernisation drive to improve border efficiency and streamline the movement of travellers and cargo. Among the upgrades, the Department of Immigration has implemented automated eGates and an online border management system, while the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) is using fast cargo scanners, drones, and the Zimbabwe Electronic Single Window (ZESW) platform to simplify clearance procedures.
The new technology enables automated identity verification using biometric passports and allocates travel days based on purpose of visit, reducing manual processing and enhancing security. Authorities report a notable decrease in smuggling cases and improved detection of unaccompanied minors. ZESW is also harmonising the work of 22 border agencies, centralising all services onto a single platform to boost transparency, compliance, and efficiency in trade and travel facilitation. These improvements come ahead of anticipated high traffic volumes during upcoming holiday periods.
Source: The Herald